Microseris

Microseris

Natural History

The Microseris is a member of the sunflower family. The plant typically grows

at elevations above 5000 feet where pine forests are present. The plant grows to about 18 inches in height and has dark green leaves up to 8 inches in length. In spring, it produces a yellow dandelion-like flower, which is followed by the round silvery seedhead seen in the photo. The seedhead is dry and feels a bit like plastic to the touch.

To me, the Microseris looks like a desert version of a dandelion (in fact, they are related).

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